Read on our post for the best place for cherry blossom viewing in philosopher’s walk Kyoto. A must visit during April with sakura blossoming when visiting Kyoto.
Philosopher’s Walk (哲学の道) is located at the northern part of Higashiyama district in Kyoto. Philosopher Walk is a pedestrian path with a cherry tree lined along the canal in Kyoto. During normal days, it is just a walking trail located between temples and shrines in Kyoto. Great for a little detour with enjoyable natural leisure stroll when visiting these places.
However, do you know that Philosopher’s Path extremely popular during April? It is renowned as one of the best spots for hanami viewing during the cherry blossom season in Kyoto. It is enchanting about walking under interlocking canopy with plenty of sakura blooming.
We visit Kyoto for 3 days during early April. For sure, this beautiful Philosopher’s Path stroll must be taken into our Kyoto cherry blossom itinerary. Relax, take your time to follow us for an amazing stroll and enjoy.
History of Philosopher’s Walk
Philosopher’s walk Kyoto during cherry blossom
First of all, some little basic information and touring tips for doing Philosopher’s Walk. It named after a Kyoto University philosopher, Kitaro Nishida, who used to practice meditation and undertake reflective thinking here. There are many different names for the Philosopher’s walk. For example, Philosopher’s Path, Path of Philosophy, Philosopher’s Path, Tetsugaku-no-Michi and more.
This walking path is approximately 1.8 km which started from Ginkakuji and end at Nanzenji. So if your Kyoto’s things to do bucket list have these two temples, consider to include Philosopher’s Walk into your Kyoto itinerary. You may extend your Kyoto walking itinerary to Maruyama Park, Gion or Kiyomizu Temple if you have more time and energy.
Getting there: Get off at Ginkakuji or nearby by Kyoto city bus (#5), (#17), (#100) at ¥230 from Kyoto station.
Entrance fee: Free!
Walking in Philosopher Path With Sakura
Again, we were so lucky to be in Japan during the cherry blossom season. Although it was not my first time to the sakura viewing spot in Japan during the cherry blossom season. However, I must admit Philosopher Walk can be rated as one of the best spots for hanami viewing in Kyoto.
We arrived Philosopher Walk around afternoon. As expected, it was packed with people. But it did not detract from its loveliness.
A canal river walking with falling sakura is what makes this street so scenery and picturesque view! You can even smell the fragrant cherry blossom in the air. The vibe was so romantic and beautiful.
Stunning View in Philosopher’s Walk With Sakura
Strolling in Philosopher’s walk
We were amazed by the stunning view with the sakura tree densely lined along the Philosopher’s Path. It just looked like a pink umbrella overlooking the whole passenger path.
Beautiful View in Philosopher’s Path
The ladies were wearing with their colorful kimonos walking along the pathway. It is just beautiful and romantic under the cherry blossom. You can rent a kimono for a perfect picture. Price ranging around ¥1,000 to ¥3,000.
The little stream that flowed through the walk framed by cherry blossoms was very picturesque. It was very clean and so clear. Spot the fish were swimming in the canal.
There are lots of great cafes, restaurants, little boutiques, and unique antique shops along the way. We stopped and wander along the gentle walking journey. Keep your eyes open on your walking journey and you’ll have a nice surprise!
It probably take you about 30 minutes from start to end. However, we took a longer time than what we expected. You may take up to 1 to 2 hours if you visit the temples and shops along the walking journey. We enjoyed our lovely time shooting for a beautiful photo, stopping by for refreshment at the cafe.
Philosopher Path: Best Place For Sakura Blossom Viewing in Kyoto
Philosopher’s Path Kyoto During cherry blossom season
All in all, the Philosopher’s walk is one of my favorite sakura viewing experiences in Kyoto Japan. The walk in the Path of Philosophers is a must-do in Kyoto during cherry blossom season. It a great experience worth for tranquil walk. Don’t forget to include this amazing beautifully walk into your 1 day, 2 or 3 days Kyoto itinerary. A must-do in Kyoto!
Besides, if you are looking for where to stay in Kyoto, we recommended staying nearby Kyoto station for easy getting around.
Best hotel or hostel nearby Kyoto Station:
For a budget traveler, Pieces Hostel Kyoto is your best budget hotel in Kyoto. It is a great option with a beautiful design hostel with clean room at a reasonable price. Strategically located with less than 5 minutes’ walk from Kyoto station. Meanwhile, there even have their second branch Pieces Hostel Sanjo if you prefer to stay in the downtown area.
Alternatively, you can also check out the Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto. It is reputation Japan chain hotel with great sized room and professional staff. It has a variety of room choices that cater to solo, couple and family.
Best Ryokan Stay nearby Gion:
Kyoto Granbell Hotel is your best accommodation in Kyoto. It features modern architecture yet with traditional Japanese design. Located at a great location among all the attractions in Gion and close to the Gion-Shijo Subway Station with 3 minutes walk. Added, a public bath is available for hotel guests.
Don’t forget to check our Kansai Japan travel guide if you’re planning an itinerary that includes Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara.
Kinkakuji also called Gold Pavilion is one of the unique and must-visit temples in Kyoto and Japan. A trip to Kinkakuji is part of my visit to Arashiyama in 3 days Kyoto itinerary.
Kyoto has many historical important temples and shrines. All have their unique atmospheres and aesthetic appeals. Among them, Kinkakuji, also called as Golden Pavilion is one of the top attractions of Kyoto. A trip to Kinkakuji will never disappoint you. This stunning pavilion is famous for its unique gold shiny color and perfectly situated aside from a lovely lake and Japanese garden.
A trip to Kinkakuji is part of my Arashiyama itinerary in Kyoto. It is ideal to visit both Kinkaji and Ginkakuji temples in one day. But there are too many things to do and see in Kyoto. It is even worst especially since our Kyoto trip is during the cherry blossom season. After discussion, we decided to visit Kinkakuji and keep Ginkakuji for our next Kyoto trip. If you have more time, you may consider visiting its brother temple, Ginkakuji.
Take a look at our visit to Kinkakuji. Moreover, we also included the transportation guide on how to go to Kinkakuji.
Travel Tips: Explore Japan’s ancient capital Kyoto to Kyoto Temples & Shrines with Day Tour from Osaka: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More. Relax with comfortable and convenient transportation to and from Osaka.
Kinkakuji vs Ginkakuji
That is to say, Kinkakuji (Gold Pavilion) and Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) are two of the most famous temples in Kyoto. Both are great to put into your Kyoto itinerary when visiting Kansai Japan. Keep reading on some history on these two historical temples.
The Kinkakuji, Golden Pavilion is a gold shinning zen temple which overlooking a large pond. It was originally built as a retirement villa of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and become a temple after his death. This golden temple was burnt down numerous in the history and last present rebuild in 1955. The best time to visit Kinkakuji is on sunny days with golden sun reflect the stunning architecture of the temple.
While the Ginkakuji, Silver Pavilion is also a Zen temple that was built in 1482 by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa as a retirement home. Unlike Kinkakuji with gold leaf-covered, Ginkakuji was never covered in silver. It is best to admire the Japanese culture with historical buildings, a beautiful Japanese garden, and a unique sand art garden. It is part of the popular Philosopher Walk Path and can be easily reached on foot from Nanzenji.
Kinkakuji located at the northwest part of Kyoto. Similar to other attractions in Kyoto, there are no major train lines nearby. So the best way to get to Kinkakuji is by bus. It can be easily reached by Kyoto City Bus from Kyoto station.
From Kyoto station to Kinkakuji: Get off at Kinkakuji-michi Stop by Kyoto city bus (#101) and (#205). The bus journey is about 40 minutes with 230 yen.
Alternative, Kinkakuji is best coupled into a day trip together with Arashiyama. Well, the best transportation option is directly to get there by taxi. But for budget traveler, you can get to Kinkakuji from Arashiyama by train and then transfer with a short journey bus ride.
From Arashiyama to Kinkakaji:
By taxi ride with about 1000-2000 yen.
By JR train from Saga-Arashiyama station to Emmachi station. Next, take a bus ride (#205) to Kinkakuji bus stop. It cost about 400 yen with a short walk.
By Keifuku Electric Railway (Randen-Kitano tram) to Kitano-Hakubaicho with one-time transfer. Next, walk about 15 minutes to Kinkakuji. Alternatively, take the bus (#102), (#204) and (#205) to Kinkakuji-michi.
Our Trip To Kinkakuji
Kinkakuji is part of our day trip to Arashiyama. The best time to visit Kinkakuji is early morning due to its popularity. It can be very crowded at the afternoon with school buses and organized tours. However, the Sagano scenic train ride required to choose on the time slot during purchase. For the best Kyoto itinerary arrangement, we decided to visit Arashiyama in the morning and only get to Kinkakuji in late afternoon.
As a result, we departed from Arashiyama to Kinkakuji at around 2 p.m. From JR Arashiyama station, we took the JR train from Saga-Arashiyama station to Emmachi station. Next, we transferred to a bus ride (#205) to Kinkakuji. Once you get off at the train station, there is a sign directing to the bus stop to catch the bus to the Kinkakuji. It is quite simple and straightforward. However, the bus ride probably be busy. But honestly, an unavoidable experience when visiting Kyoto. So be prepared.
Perfect Reflection of Kinkakuji
First of all, we were amazed by the main attraction Kinkakuji once entered into Kinkakuji. There are so many different temples and shrines in Kyoto, but I must admit Kinkakuji is something different.
The Zen temple is completely covered in gold leaf with golden shiny color. It situated perfectly aside lake and surrounded by a Japanese garden. The reflection of the temple was so picturesque and stunning. No doubt, a beautiful sight.
Next, follow the path and walk around the lake. This will ensure you get excellent views from different perspectives. It’s easy to get good pictures but there were too many people surrounded. So be patient and wait. You will find the best picture-perfect spot with a full view of the Temple. Take note no tripod allow inside Kinkakuji.
Lastly, there are some adequate souvenirs and rest stops along the way. You can have some rest or try the Japanese sweets and snacks here. Alternatively, enjoy a cup of green tea at a small tea house.
To sum up, it only took us about 1 hour to walk through around the Kinkakuji temple. That is to say, it was a long journey trip to get there for a very short time spent to mesmerize this stunning shrine. However, Kinkakuji is still rated as one of the must-visit in my Kyoto itinerary. Most importantly, you need to decide if a trip to Kinkakuji is worth for you. Happy travel to Kyoto!
Where To Stay
Need help on the best hotel in Kyoto? We recommended staying nearby the Kyoto station for easy moving around. Here are some of the best hotels in Kyoto if you are looking at the best accommodation nearby Kyoto station.
For a budget traveler, Pieces Hostel Kyoto is your best budget hotel in Kyoto. It is a great option with a beautiful design hostel with clean room at a reasonable price. Strategically located with less than 5 minutes’ walk from Kyoto station. Meanwhile, there even have their second branch Pieces Hostel Sanjo if you prefer to stay in the downtown area.
Alternatively, you can also check out the Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto. It is reputation Japan chain hotel with great sized room and professional staff. It has a variety of room choices that cater to solo, couple and family.
Read more
Lastly, if you’re heading to Kyoto, feel free to also check out my Kyoto travel stories:
Planning your Kyoto Kiyomizudera itinerary by walking including to the Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka in Higashiyama district.
Kyoto has many top attractions and very ideal to plan for at least one day or two days itinerary in Kyoto. Among all the attractions, Kiyomizudera (清水寺) no doubt is one of the must-visit sight in Kyoto. It is world-famous for its spectacular historical building and added into UNESCO world heritage sites in 1994. Together with the various historical building in Higashiyama district, it is a pleasant walk through the ground area to the Kiyomizudera temple.
The best time to visit Kiyomizudera is during the sakura season in April and fall autumn in November when maple turns red. We were so lucky and visited Kiyomizudera in Spring during the cherry blossom in bloom. The view was so amazing with stunning buildings and beautiful sakura in bloom.
Travel Tips: Explore Japan’s ancient capital Kyoto to Kyoto Temples & Shrines with Day Tour from Osaka: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More. Relax with comfortable and convenient transportation to and from Osaka.
How To Get To Kiyomizudera
First of all, Kiyomizudera is accessible by public transport from various side of Kyoto. It can be reached by bus or railway to the temple. However, take note that all the transportation required at least 10-20 minutes uphill walk to the temple.
From JR Kyoto Station to Kiyomizudera by bus: Take the Kyoto bus (#206) or (#100) and get off at Gojozaka stop. Next, another 10 minutes walk will get you to Kiyomizudera entrance. Alternatively, Kiyomizudera can be reach from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station along the Keihan Railway Line with 20 minutes walk.
We recommended taking the Kyoto city bus to Kiyomizudera which cost about ¥230 for one way.
Kiyomizudera Walking Route Itinerary
Kiyomizudera is one of the must-visit attractions when getting to Kyoto. The best time to visit Kiyomizudera is morning before the crowd or late evening when everyone left. It can be very crowded as this is the top sightseeing in Kyoto. So, we decided to visit Kiyomizudera as the first stop during our second day in Kyoto itinerary.
Here is the Kiyomizudera Walking Route Itinerary:
Take the Kyoto Bus (#100) from Kyoto Station to Gojozaka Stop
Walk To the Kiyomizu-dera Temple entrance
Visit Kiyomizudera Temple
The wooden structure of Kiyomizudera Main Hall
Enjoy the best Kiyomizudera View From Okunoin Hall
Pray at Jishu Shrine
Take a sip of water from Otawa no taki
Stroll Around Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka Slope
From Kyoto Station To Gojozaka Stop
From Kyoto station, we took the Kyoto bus (#100) and got off at Gojozaka stop. There is no direct access to Kiyomizudera. You need to climb up picturesque shopping streets that line along the way up. Anyway, this is the only way to get to Kiyomizudera.
We arrived before 8:00 am and glad that we made the right decision. The surrounding streets are beautiful despite being overrun with tourists. It’s the best time to enjoy the view around the shrine with an old Japan street view.
It was a very serene and pleasant 10 minutes walk along the street in the early morning. Get some nice photoshoot before the crowd booming in. There are few visitors dressed up in Japanese traditional kimono along the street. If you are interested, you can rent the kimono at some shops and walk around the area.
We straight went up to visit the temple as the first stop in the Kiyomizudera itinerary. No worry as we will come back exploring Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka later.
Kinomizudera Entrance
Kiyomizudera becomes visible as you ascend the narrow street. We paid our entrance fee and walked among the historical buildings. There are various temple buildings such as Nio-mon and Sai-mon in the area.
Opening Hours: 6:00 to 18:00 (until 18:30 on weekends)
Entrance Fee: ¥500
Kinomizudera Main Hall
We were impressed by the wooden structures when we walked into the main hall area. Kiyomizudera is renowned for its impressive wooden temple which standing on the cliff of the mountain. The Main Hall of Kiyomizudera is supported by 139 pillars but constructed without the use of a single nail. However, it was built solidly enough to support the stage.
We spent some time in the Main Hall, experiencing its serenity and taking part in some prayer rites. Enjoy the beautiful panorama view of Kyoto city from the stage.
The view on wooden structures of Kiyomizudera when we follow the trail down from the main hall area.
Best Kiyomizudera View From Okunoin Hall
However, the best view of Kiyomizudera is from the viewing platform at Okunoin hall which diagonally opposite of the main temple. Follow the path will lead you to the Okunoin hall. This is where you could see the whole stunning wooden structures of Kiyomizudera from distance.
Jishu Shrine
Enjoy your stroll at the Kiyomizudera temple area. There are some other attractions that worth spending some time.
Next, behind Kiyomizudera’s main hall stands the Jishu Shrine (地主神社). It is a small shrine dedicated to love and matchmaking. Many people come here to wish for love life.
Added, there is a legendary stone known as “love stones” where you can find your loved one soon. Just close your eyes and walk straight to another stone located at the opposite.
Otowa no taki (Otowa Waterfall)
Added, you noticed there is a small waterfall at the base of Kiyomizudera’s main hall. The Otowa Waterfall is where you can wish for your longevity, love, and wisdom. Take a sip from one of them by using the long poles cups attached.
Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Slope
There are many wonderful things to do in Kiyomizudera. Lastly, we spend our time strolling around at the iconic street in Higashiyama district, Kyoto.
The Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Slope is best known for its scenic street view. Take some time wandering around the street as it is worth it. You can find various types of souvenir shops, desserts, cafes, and restaurants around the busy street here.
On our leisurely downhill walk, we ended up stopping at multiple stops to enjoy some local Japanese sweets and sake. However, many visitors started booming the busy lane in the late morning. So take your time to explore around and take some refreshment when you are tired. Most importantly, there are also some hidden photo spots where you can take a nice photo with beautiful scenery.
All in all, Kiyomizudera is a must-visit place especially for the first timer in Kyoto. We spend about 3 to 4 hours exploring around. Do come earlier in the morning to avoid the crowd.
Happy travel to Kiyomizudera!
Where To Stay
Looking for where to stay in Kyoto? We listed out some of the best hotels in Kyoto for your selection.
Pieces Hostel Kyoto is the best budget hotel in Kyoto and awarded with the best designer hostel. It strategic located less than 5 minutes from Kyoto station. Reasonable spacious room and clean bed at this price range. Added, free breakfast with a variety of choices including Japanese and western selection. Very popular accommodation for budget travelers. Meanwhile, there even have their second branch Pieces Hostel Sanjo if you prefer to stay in the downtown area.
Alternatively, consider Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto which located a 5-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station. Great sized room, comfortable bed, and professional staff. Everything is perfect for this hotel.
Moreover, if you prefer for best Ryokan stay in Kyoto, Kyoto Granbell Hotel is your best accommodation in Kyoto. It features modern architecture yet with traditional Japanese design. Located in a great location among all the attractions in Gion and close to the Gion-Shijo Subway Station with 3 minutes walk. Added, a public bath is available for hotel guests.
Read More
Lastly, if you’re heading to Kyoto, feel free to also check out my Kyoto travel stories:
Planning on visit Arashiyama in Kyoto? Read on our walking guide with Arashiyama itinerary with top things to do listed for half day trip to Arashiyama during cherry blossom.
Arashiyama (嵐山) is one of the popular sightseeing places in Kyoto. It is famous for its beautiful scenery, well-preserved ancient buildings, and sightseeing experience. No doubt, there are many things to see and do in Arashiyama. All the must-visit attraction is ideal to put into one-day itinerary from Kyoto. However, if you only have limited time, Arashiyama is a good place for a half-day trip to explore its natural beauty.
Arashiyama is also rated as one of the best spots for cherry blossoms in March and April as well as fall foliage in November in the Kyoto district. We have visited Arashiyama more than once, and each season has its own beauty. One of our visits was during early April, during the cherry blossom season, and it was amazing to see the sakura in full bloom.
Read on how we plan on our half-day Arashiyama itinerary from Kyoto.
Travel Tips: Explore Japan’s ancient capital Kyoto to Kyoto Temples & Shrines with Day Tour from Osaka: Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera & More. Relax with comfortable and convenient transportation to and from Osaka.
How To Get To Arashiyama
First of all, Arashiyama is located slightly far distance with seven kilometers away from downtown Kyoto. However, it is pretty easy to get to Arashiyama from Osaka and Kyoto by train or bus. The train is a better option as you may get struct in the traffic by bus.
From Kyoto to Arashiyama by train or bus.
By JR train: Take the JR San-In Line to JR Saga-Arashiyama (嵯峨嵐山) station from Kyoto Station. The 15 minutes train journey run every 20 minutes and will cost about ¥240.
By Keifuku Randen Tram: For travelers from central Kyoto, take the Randen Line 12 stops from Shijo-Omiya (四条大宮) Station to Arashiyama (嵐山) Station. The tram runs every 10 minutes and costs ¥250.
By Sagano Scenic Railway: From JR Kyoto (京都) Station to JR Umahori (馬堀) Station by JR Saga line. Next, transfer to Kameoka Torokko station (ロッコ亀岡駅) to take the Sagano Torokko to Arashiyama with a scenic train ride.
By Bus: From Kyoto station and take the Kyoto City Bus (#28) and get off at Arashiyama-Tenryuji-mae.
From Osaka to Arashiyama is also doable by train. There are few train operators connected between Kyoto and Osaka such as JR, Hankyu, or Keihan Main Line. It depends on where is your departure from Osaka or arrival stop in Kyoto.
By JR train: Take the JR train from Osaka to JR Kyoto station, then transfer to JR Saga-Arashiyama station.
By Hankyu train: Take the train to Katsura Station, and then transfer to Hankyu Arashiyama Line to Arashiyama Station.
Note: The train operated is not connected and is situated at different stations a few minutes apart on foot.
Arashiyama Itinerary
When you are getting to Arashiyama, all the attractions are accessible by walking. There are many things to do on a sightseeing trip to Arashiyama. The whole visit can be finished by one day or a half-day trip within four to six hours.
Here is my walking route on Arashiyama itinerary for things to do in one-day:
Ride on Sagano scenic railway (1 – 2 hours)
Leisure walk in the bamboo grove – Must visit spot in Arashiyama (1 hour)
Pray on Nonomiya Shrine (30 minutes)
Visit World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple (1 hour)
Have Some Snack at Food Street
Try the traditional Kyoto yudofu
Cross the Togetsu-kyo Bridge (30 minutes)
Hozugawa River Boat Ride (1 -2 hours)
1. Ride on Sagano Scenic Railway
The scenery train ride on Sagano Railway is one of the popular activities in Arashiyama. Enjoy the beautiful countryside mountain view with nostalgic trains along the Hozugawa River.
This scenic train takes around 25 minutes for a single ride from Kameoka to Saga Torokko station. However, you can choose to take off at Arashiyama Torokko station which located nearby the bamboo forest. It is a great stop to proceed for our next stop in Arashiyama’s visit.
Very popular and you need to purchase your ticket before boarding the train.
Getting there: Take JR train from JR Kyoto Station to JR Umahori station. Next, board the Sagano Scenic Train at Kameoka Torokko station for scenery ride.
Train fare: ¥880, 25 minutes
The Sagano Romantic Train Ticket can be purrchase through Klook and Sagano Kanto website.
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2. Leisure Walk in Bamboo Grove
Arashiyama bamboo grove or bamboo forest is another must-see in Arashiyama, Kyoto. It is also one of the top sights where you can discover the refreshing natural beauty.
After arriving at Arashiyama Torokko station, a short walk will lead you to the bamboo grove. It’s hard to put into words just how excited we were to finally visit this place, as it’s been on our travel bucket list for so long. The bamboo grove looks especially beautiful when sunlight shines through from the top. It’s a leisurely walk with towering bamboo stalks lining the path. The trail is short and will take you less than 10 minutes to walk through – just be sure to allow time for taking pictures!
Sadly that it is very much touristy very many people surrounded. Probably it’s better to come here in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowd for a peaceful visit. Worth visiting when visit Arashiyama.
Besides, you may also take advantage of the Arashiyama rickshaw tour. This tricycle experience tour will bring you through the bamboo forest and few best sight in the forest. A great option for those who want to save some walking energy.
Getting there: 5 minutes walk from Arashiyama Torokko station.
Entrance fee: Free!
Arashiyama Travel Tips: If you arrive at Arashiyama Station or Saga-Arashiyama station, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
3. Pray at Nonomiya Shrine
The Nonomiya Shrine (野宮神社) is a small Shinto shrine located in the Arashiyama bamboo grove. It is dedicated to the Sun Goddess and to the deity of fire. It is said that the shrine provides blessings for marriage. Locals and visitors, especially for single ladies, are coming to Nonomiya Shrine to seek for purity and pray for love.
The shrine consists of a main altar and a few sub-shrines in a moss filled garden. Not too big but worth taking a look when passing by. It was beautiful as it located in the forest surrounded by trees and bamboo. A brief stop when you are in the bamboo forest.
Getting there: located inside the bamboo forest.
Entrance fee: Free!
4. Visit World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple
Tenryuji (天龍寺, Tenryūji) is one of the important temples in Kyoto. It is a famous Zen temple and now registered as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most beautiful part of Tenryu-ji Temple is the finest garden inside with a tranquil atmosphere. It features a is a beautiful pond surrounded by pine trees, rocks and mountain view of Arashiyama. The view is very beautiful, especially in sakura or autumn foliage season.
Getting there: less than 10 minutes walk from Nonomiya Shrine
Opening Hours: 8:30 to 17:00-17:30
Entrance fee: ¥500 (additional ¥300 to main temple buildings)
5. Have Some Snack at Food Street
From Tenryu-ji Temple to the Togetsukyo bridge, there are a lot of restaurants along the roadside. Take a stroll along the street and choose what to eat in Arashiyama. From a Western cafe, Japanese restaurants or small shops are all available on the main street.
Added, there are also many Japanese local street snacks to try along the way. Take the opportunity to grab some snacks and refreshments.
Getting there: 5 minutes walk from Tenryuji Temple
6. Try the traditional Kyoto yudofu
Kyoto is the place in Japan to eat yudofu. There are many places to try this specialty in Kyoto.
If you want to have a great tofu dining experience in Arashiyama, you should try Yudofu Sagano! This restaurant is famous for tofu dishes in Arasihayama. Your food journey will be pleased not only through your taste buds but also through your eyes, as the restaurants are located in the beautiful gardens.
The Yudofu course meals are generally available from ¥3,000 up to ¥4,000 depending on the number of items in the meals.
7. Cross the Togetsu-kyo Bridge
Togetsu-kyo Bridge
Walk along the main street of Arashiyama toward the riverside. The wooden Togetsu-kyo Bridge (渡月橋) is another iconic landmark in Arashiyama. It is a well-known symbol of Arashiyama which spans across Katsura Rivers for more than 1000 years.
It was a beautiful scene with cherry trees lining the river. Locals were having picnics in the riverside park next to the Togetsu-kyo Bridge.
You can also follow the signs for a 20-minute hike up to the Iwatayama Monkey Park, another attraction in Arashiyama. We didn’t visit the Monkey Park and just spent time wandering around.
Getting there: 5 minutes walk from Tenryuji Temple
8. Hozugawa River Boat Ride
If you are interested, you may consider to include the Hozugawa River Boat Ride in your Arashiyama itinerary. The boat will be rowing at the Hozugawa river with beautiful scenery along the journey. It one of the best ways to embrace the greatness of mother nature in Arashiyama.
Unfortunately, we did not know about this boat ride before our Arashiyama trip. And only get to know this amazing experience when we take the Sagano train. Hopefully, we have a chance to come back for the boat ride.
Anyway, this 1 to 2 hours Hozugawa River Boat ride is not cheap. But worth for the best view especially during cherry blossom or autumn foliage.
Getting there: Purchase your boat package at the ticket counter (train station). Get to boarding point which required 5 minutes walk from Kameoka station.
Don’t forget to head back to Arashiyama main street and use this chance to grab a bite for lunch. There are plenty of options and many stores here selling small bites, traditional Japanese snacks, street food, and drinks. You can also taste the yodofu and Japanese cuisine here.
In Arashiyama, there are several popular foods are specialty food for this region and must try here. Here are our recommendations in the Arashiyama food guide
Yutofu Meal
Yotofu is a specialty and popular dish in Arashiyama. The tofu meal in Arashiyama may not be for everyone, especially those who are expecting a meaty or strongly flavored meal. But it is still worth to try it when visiting Arashiyama.
The famous tofu restaurants in Arashiyama are Saga Tofu Ine (嵯峨豆腐稻), Shoraian (松籟庵), and Yudofu Sagano (湯豆腐 嵯峨野).
Try tofu dish at Arashiyama Yudofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu
If you’re interested in trying tofu without spending too much money, consider visiting Yudofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu. This cabin kiosk offers quick snacks, noodle dishes, and yudofu at reasonable prices. It’s a convenient stop while visiting Arashiyama. The stall located on the same corner of food stall cluster such as Kotoimo Honpo (古都芋本舖) and easy to find.
Arashiyama Yoshimura
Handmade Soba: Arashiyama Yoshimura (嵐山よしむら蕎麥麵) is a popular soba restaurant located near Togetsu-kyo Bridge. It is just located few steps aways from % Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama.
It’s a great place for lunch after visiting Arashiyama. It’s best to arrive early, as the place is popular. No reservations can be made, so you will need to come early to get your table number. The staff will give you an estimated waiting time so diners can stroll around the nearby gardens while waiting.
We had to wait for about 1 hour to be seated. But worth the waiting time. The food is amazing, delicious, and reasonably priced.
There are table and counter seating area. If you’re really lucky, you can snag a seat right by the window. In that case, your eyes will be treated to the beauty of the Hozu-gawa River and the Arashiyama Mountains.
Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama
Cafe and Desserts: In Arashiyama, there are several fantastic cafes and dessert shops that will leave you feeling satisfied. One of the most well-liked cafes is Arabica Kyoto, which is situated on the river bank. It’s easy to spot due to the long line of customers waiting outside.
% Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama – A small shop is perfectly positioned not far from Togetsu-kyo Bridge, facing the river with a beautiful view. The line is always long, and you can see the barista and staff working non-stop to make coffee.
They don’t offer seating, but you can take your coffee to the Katsura riverside and enjoy the view. It’s a lovely spot for a break with a great view.
Kotoimo Honpo
Kotoimo Honpo (古都芋本舖) is a popular street food spot in Arashiyama. The small snack shop is situated at the entrance of the Arashimaya Bamboo Forest.
Kotoimo Honpo offers a variety of traditional Japanese sweets such as sweet soy sauce mochi and candied baked sweet potatoes. The thin, crispy, and savory sweet potato chips are truly addicting, with many people lining up for these snacks.
Kyozuan
Kyozuan (京豆庵) is famous for its tofu ice cream made from 100% Japanese soybeans. It’s a great place to enjoy a refreshing drink in hot weather. The shop is located next to Kotoimo Honpo and at the corner of the food stall cluster at the entrance of the Bamboo Grove.
Other food options that are worth recommending to eat in Arashiyama, include:
Unagi: Unagiya Hirokawa is renowned for its Unagi sets in Arashiyama. Reservations are highly recommended as this restaurant gets extremely crowded.
Where To Stay? Kyoto Or Arashiyama
Arashiyama is very ideal for a day trip from Kyoto with well-connected transportation. But, it is great to stay overnight to enjoy beauty peacefully when all the day-tripper leaving. If you want to stay overnight in Arashiyama, we highly recommend you to stay overnight in a traditional ryokan there.
Rangetsu,Suiran Hotel, and Arashiyama Benkei are the best finest ryokan in Arashiyama. All are perfect traditional ryokan that made you feel like your own Japanese home with onsen facilities. A great place for your perfect stay in Arashiyama who want to be based here. Friendly reminder that limited rooms are available for ryokan. Reserve your rooms as earlier as possible to avoid disappointment.
Arashiyama Itinerary Tips
How long do you need in Arashiyama?
Plan for at least three to four hours to visit Arashiyama in leisure.
What is the best time to visit Arashiyama?
Sakura season and Autumn is the best time to visit Arashiyama.
Is Arashiyama worth visiting?
Arashiyama is one of the must visit in Kyoto especially for first time visitor. The bamboo grove is the top popular sights in Arashiyama.
How do I get to Arashiyama bamboo grove?
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano/San-in Main Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station with approx. 15 min train ride. Next, another 10-min walk will get you to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Half Day Trip To Arashiyama
All in all, we enjoy our half-day trip to Arashiyama. All the must-visit attraction was included in my walking itinerary. It is a leisure trip and a great retreat outside of Kyoto city. Even if you only have half-day in Arashiyama, you still can manage to accomplish most of them.
However, if you have time for one day in Arashiyama, we highly recommended go for the Hozugawa River Boat ride and enjoy nature along the river. There are still many places like Jojakukoji Temple, Gioji temple, Hogonin, monkey park to visit in Arashiyama. In short, Arashiyama worth for allocating more time for exploring. If you are interested, continue to read on my related travel blog on Kansai itinerary planning.
